Hallandale Beach, Florida – In an effort to combat the potential spread of diseases such as dengue, yellow fever, and chikungunya, the Mosquito Control Section of Broward County has announced plans to conduct larvicide spraying in several areas. From February 27 to March 1, specific sections of Hallandale Beach, Pembroke Park, and West Park will see targeted efforts to reduce the population of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These operations, scheduled to occur between 10 PM and 6 AM, will utilize truck-mounted sprayers to distribute VectoBac WDG, a larvicide proven to be safe for humans, pets, bees, and aquatic environments.
The chosen larvicide contains Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti, strain AM6552), a naturally occurring bacterium that specifically targets mosquito larvae without harming other species. Its safety and effectiveness have been affirmed by the Organic Materials Review Institute and the US Environmental Protection Agency, with additional recognition from the World Health Organization.
This initiative is part of Broward County’s ongoing efforts, in collaboration with the Florida Department of Health and local Code Enforcement, to mitigate mosquito populations and their breeding grounds. The focus is on eliminating larvae in small water accumulations found in outdoor containers and certain plants, such as bromeliads and traveler’s palms, frequently used in landscaping.
Residents and business owners play a crucial role in this endeavor by ensuring their properties are free of standing water in items like buckets, tires, and birdbaths, thereby reducing potential breeding sites for mosquitoes. These proactive measures are vital in lowering the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in the community.
For those facing mosquito issues, Broward County offers support through a Mosquito Service Request Form available online, or residents can simply call 311 for assistance. This comprehensive approach reflects the county’s commitment to public health and safety by addressing mosquito concerns at their source.
